Armenia: Is Concern About Domestic Violence a Liberal Value?

A picket in Armenia in support a draft bill aimed at preventing domestic violence. The bill was scuttled after opponents charged that it was a European attempt to undermine traditional Armenian values. (Photo: Coalition Against Domestic Violence)

Legislation aimed at preventing domestic violence in Armenia has been scuttled after opponents charged that it is a European attempt to undermine traditional Armenian values.

The draft law, titled “Prevention of and the Struggle against Domestic Violence” was published in November on the website of the Ministry of Justice. The bill would have strengthened laws against domestic violence, and created mechanisms aimed at preventing it, as well as services for its victims. It was introduced as part of a European Union program, under which Armenia would be eligible for 11 million euros in aid, contingent on the country passing a law on domestic violence.

After an immediate outcry, the ministry withdrew the bill the next day, and promised to organize public discussions and elicit citizens’ feedback on the legislation.

Armenia: Is Concern About Domestic Violence a Liberal Value?

A picket in Armenia in support a draft bill aimed at preventing domestic violence. The bill was scuttled after opponents charged that it was a European attempt to undermine traditional Armenian values. (Photo: Coalition Against Domestic Violence)